Known during her lifetime as the “First Lady of Negro America,” Mary McLeod Bethune is remembered for her contributions as an educator and civil rights activist. Although the founding of Bethune-Cookman University is probably her most well-known accomplishment, it is one of many.

About the museum

One of Florida’s preeminent cultural institutions, the Orange County Regional History Center advances its mission to honor the past, explore the present, and shape the future through permanent and traveling exhibits, wide-ranging programs, and limited-run exhibitions from other prestigious institutions. With deep roots in Orange County, the History Center opened in 2000 and is operated by Orange County and the nonprofit Historical Society of Central Florida, Inc. Read more about our story.

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Our Location

The History Center is located in the restored 1927 courthouse at Magnolia Avenue and Central Boulevard in the heart of downtown Orlando. Parking is available in the Library Parking Garage at 112 E. Central Blvd. across from the Orlando Public Library. Get directions and a map.